If you find yourself facing a first offense of driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge in Texas, it’s important to understand the potential consequences and the importance of hiring an Austin criminal defense attorney to help you navigate the legal process. This blog post will discuss the legal landscape of a first drunk driving arrest and potential conviction in Texas.

Drunk Driving At a Glance

Drunk driving is a serious offense in Texas. Texas has one of the highest rates of drunk driving in the nation, which is why our state takes this issue so seriously. To better understand, look over these drunk driving statistics:

• In 2019, there were 940 alcohol-related fatalities in Texas, accounting for 26% of all traffic fatalities in the state. (Source: Texas Department of Transportation)
• According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, in 2019, there were 65,522 alcohol-related crashes in the state. These crashes resulted in 39,705 injuries and 3,615 serious injuries. These statistics underscore the importance of taking drunk driving offenses seriously.
• According to the Texas Department of Transportation, the average cost of a first-time DWI in Texas is approximately $17,000, including fines, legal fees, increased insurance premiums, and other expenses. 
• There were over 70,000 DUI arrests in the state in 2019, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. 

The Consequences of a First Offense DWI Charge

1. License Suspension – One of the immediate consequences of a first-offense DWI charge in Texas is the potential suspension of your driver’s license. If you fail or refuse a breathalyzer or blood test, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) can suspend your license for up to 180 days. 
2. Fines and Court Costs – In addition to license suspension, a first-offense DWI can result in hefty fines and court costs. The amount varies depending on the specific circumstances of your case, but they can range from $2,000 to $4,000. 
3. Probation – If convicted of a first-offense DWI, you may be placed on probation. This typically includes regular meetings with a probation officer, mandatory alcohol or drug counseling, and restrictions on your activities. Failure to comply with the terms of probation can result in additional penalties.
4. Ignition Interlock Device – A first-offense DWI conviction may require the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle. This device measures your breath alcohol concentration (BAC) before allowing the vehicle to start. If you have any alcohol in your system, the vehicle will not start. The cost of installing and maintaining an IID can be significant.
5. Criminal Record – A first-offense DWI conviction will result in a permanent criminal record. This can have long-lasting consequences, affecting your employment opportunities, educational prospects, and personal relationships.

Subsequent DUI Charges

If you face another DUI charge, the implications are more severe. In Texas, a subsequent DUI charge is considered a Class A misdemeanor, which is the most serious level of misdemeanor. If convicted, you can face up to one year in jail, fines up to $4,000, and a license suspension of up to two years. Additionally, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle, which monitors your blood alcohol content (BAC) before allowing you to start your car.

The penalties for subsequent DUI charges become even more severe if certain aggravating factors are present. For example, if you had a BAC of 0.15% or higher, the offense is upgraded to a Class A misdemeanor with enhanced penalties. Additionally, if you caused an accident resulting in serious bodily injury or death while driving under the influence, you could be charged with a felony offense, potentially leading to significant prison time.

Trusted Austin DUI Lawyers

If you’re facing a first-offense DWI charge in Texas, you need the support and expertise of a trusted attorney. The Law Office of David D. White is here to help you navigate the justice system and fight for your rights. Don’t face these charges alone—let us be your trusted advocate and partner along the way. Contact us now to schedule a free, no-obligation case review and consultation with one of our hard-working Austin DUI lawyers. We are here to fight for you!